People keep asking me about Japan. Friends, acquaintances, people I barely know but who’ve seen the photos and want a taste of the same magic. So I made this site—not a glossy brochure, not a sanitized guidebook, but something to get you thinking about what you might want to see, eat, and experience.
My love of travel started young, but Japan… that hit me in high school. Back then, I thought it was the promised land—neon-lit technology utopia, vending machines that never broke, a place where trains ran on time and the future already existed. That’s the fantasy. And it’s true—up to a point.
But I’ve gone past that wide-eyed tourist phase. Japan isn’t a theme park. It’s real life, complicated, messy, beautiful. I’ve been lucky enough to catch glimpses of that too. For now, though, this post is for the traveler—the one just passing through. A temporary visitor looking to get lost in the backstreets, eat something unforgettable, maybe even feel for a moment that impossible combination of order and chaos that makes this place what it is.
I have Power Points for you
Yeah, my job hardwired me to live and die by PowerPoint. Sounds like a gimmick, but it’s not. Those slides have saved my ass more than once—like the time my phone died and I still had all the info I needed printed out.Make a plan. How you’re getting from the airport to your hotel, where you’re staying, what you’re doing, how you’re getting around, and how you’re getting back home. Don’t overcomplicate it, but don’t wing it either. Extra points if you put together a budget sheet. Nothing kills the buzz of travel faster than realizing you blew through half your money by day three.
Season to Travel
When it comes to Japan, the season you choose depends on three things: how much weather you can handle, how fat your wallet is, and how long you’ve got to burn. Oh, and don’t forget where you’re flying in from. Rule of thumb—keep the flights as direct as possible. Every extra hop is another chance for delays, bad airport food, and soul-crushing jet lag. But hey, if adding one layover saves you half the cost of your ticket, grit your teeth and deal with it.
Geography lesson: Japan stretches from the icy north of Hokkaido to the subtropical south of Okinawa. That’s a big spread, and the weather is as varied as the food. The chart below sticks to the main island—the Tokyo and Osaka corridor where most visitors end up. Pay attention, because what feels like spring in one part of the country might feel like a wet wool blanket in another.
| Area of Concern | Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
| Flight Costs | $800 to 2000s | $800s to $1400s | $700 to $1000 | $500 to 1000 |
| Weather | Somewhat cold a night and light jacket during day | Hot, Humid | Some days hot, most days comfortable | Freezing sometimes, comfortable with warm clothes |
Picking Flights
Out of LAX, ZipAir is my go-to into Tokyo. Cheap, no-frills, and it gets the job done. Tokyo’s got two airports, and when you land matters. Don’t be the genius who books the flight that touches down after 8 p.m.—unless you enjoy wrestling customs, sprinting through train stations, or shelling out for a sad airport hotel or a taxi that costs as much as your ticket.
Leaving LAX? Time of day doesn’t matter much. What does matter is parking. Book long-term in advance and you’ll save a pile. Shuttles usually run like clockwork. If you’re coming from San Diego, forget about driving yourself—there are budget shuttles from Old Town straight to LAX. Way better than blowing money on a pre-flight hotel. And whatever you do, don’t tempt fate with rush hour traffic. You will lose.
If your flight leaves before 10 a.m., do yourself a favor and go up the night before. Otherwise, set the alarm, plan for war, and be at the airport three hours early. Check-in is always a grind, never a joy.
For the experience, I’ll tip my hat to StarLux and Japan Airlines—both still know how to keep the booze flowing and the food edible. And one last piece of advice: don’t waste your money eating at LAX. Japan has konbini—convenience stores that put most restaurants to shame. Soon enough you’ll be living off rice balls, fried chicken, and canned coffee for pocket change. And you’ll love it.
Picking Lodging
Where you stay in Japan boils down to three things: budget, body count, and how soft a bed you need to sleep on. Rolling in with more than four people? Forget hotels—you’ll end up paying out the nose. AirBnB is your friend. For smaller groups, expect two per room if you want to stay sane.
Big-name hotels will happily charge you $200 a night and give you more space to sprawl, but honestly, most travelers don’t need it. Standard hotels usually run between $50 and $80 a night, depending on where you land. Tight rooms, sure—but you’re in Japan. You’re not supposed to spend the day in your hotel room watching TV.
I’ve got a few favorite spots I’ll share, but the real advice is this: don’t get hung up on luxury. The magic isn’t in the thread count—it’s in the ramen joint down the street, the midnight konbini run, the way Tokyo feels when you step outside at 2 a.m.
Tokyo
For first-timers, you’ve really got two choices: Shinjuku or somewhere near Tokyo Skytree. Flying into Narita? Skytree’s your easiest bet—close, direct, and no drama getting into the city. From there, the rest of Tokyo is yours. Coming and going through Haneda? Shinjuku is the move. It’s messy, electric, crowded in the best possible way. The Tokyo most people dream about.
If you’ve already been around the block in Japan, you’ll probably branch out to new neighborhoods—or keep going back to your old standbys. I mostly split time between Shinjuku and Skytree myself, with the occasional detour to Machida City. That last one? Skip it if this is your first rodeo.
Airbnb can be a solid play in either spot, especially if you’re rolling with a crew. But if it’s just you, or two, maybe four—splurge on the Hilton or Hyatt for a night. You’ll know the vibe the moment you step in: Lost in Translation, jet-lagged, staring out the window at neon Tokyo in the rain. Worth it.
On a tighter budget? Tokyo-Inn and APA have never let me down. Rooms are small, beds are smaller, but that’s Japan. You’re not there to hang out in a hotel room. The Hilton in Shinjuku is my go-to when I want space; APA when I just want a bed and a hot shower. I’ve even done Airbnb and walked away satisfied.
One last note: you’re going to live on trains and subways here. Pick your place based on access, not amenities. And when it comes time to book, I usually run it through Orbitz or Google. Simple, fast, and no games.
Osaka & Kyoto
If you’re coming into Osaka, plant yourself in the center of the city. That’s where the action is. I usually stay near Osaka Castle—my go-to is the Lutheran Hotel. Yeah, it’s got a church attached, but don’t let that scare you off. The price-to-comfort ratio is almost absurd for Japan: spacious rooms, clean, and easy on the wallet. Otherwise, you can always fall back on the APA chain. They’re everywhere, reliable, and exactly what you expect—just check the reviews to avoid the duds. Getting around Osaka means trains or ride shares, so plan for that. Three nights here is more than enough to soak in the food, the neon, and the chaos. Any more and you’ll just be circling back on yourself.
Kyoto’s a different story. This isn’t a city you “do” in a day, but you also don’t need a week. Two nights, tops. When you come in by train, drop your bags in the older eastern district. Pay the extra twenty bucks—it’s worth it to wake up and stroll straight into quiet streets and temples before the tour buses flood in. Stay close enough to walk to the old wooden Starbucks, the one built into a historic machiya. Yes, it’s a Starbucks, but the building is pure Kyoto, and you’ll thank yourself for the experience when you’re sipping coffee in creaking wooden beams instead of a sterile glass box.
How to pack for this country
Don’t drag a giant suitcase across Japan. Nothing says “lost tourist” like wheeling half your closet through Shinjuku Station. Pack for five days. That’s it. If it’s summer, two pairs of shorts, five shirts, five socks, five underwear, one bathing suit. Maybe a decent shirt if you plan to eat somewhere nicer than a ramen counter. Nobody’s expecting Americans to show up in a suit, but let’s be clear—wearing a white beater in public makes you look like you’ve just been evicted. Have a little self-respect.
Toiletries? Toothbrush, toothpaste, whatever basics you need to feel human when you land. Everything else—shampoo, conditioner, medicine, tampons—you’ll get cheaper, better, and probably weirder in Japan. Pack your cologne or perfume if that’s your thing. Deodorant too, especially if you need something specific. Otherwise, you’ll survive.
Tech is non-negotiable. Phone chargers, a battery pack—best bought stateside. Check international data with your carrier, or if you’re cheap (and smart), pick up a local eSIM. Pre-buy one before you go, but make sure your phone’s unlocked or you’ll be out of luck.
And if you forget something? Relax. This is Japan. You’ll find it. Convenience stores and pharmacies are everywhere. You’re not trekking through the Amazon—you’re in one of the most efficient, consumer-friendly countries on earth.
Suggested Packing List:
| Packing Item | Where to Buy |
| International Power Charger Block (existing two-prong US chargers will work on certain sockets) | $8 : https://amzn.to/409WiZW |
| Portable Recharging Battery | $26: https://amzn.to/49RmLyO |
| Cell Phone Cables | Bring existing cables. I would recommend a main and backup set. |
| Durable Travel Luggage | $210: https://amzn.to/3VPUnHC I’ll create a luggage post soon. I use this very case. |
| Travel Fold-able Duffel Bag (For shopping overflow and where you want to store your treasures) | $15 or less : https://amzn.to/41Pf2z7 |
| Travel Backpack (Try low weight, small space types) | $19 or less: https://amzn.to/4fyODZL |
| Non-Expensive Sunglasses and Hat | Existing if you can. Can get dirty and trashed |
| 5 days of underwear and socks | Existing if you can |
| 2 pants, 2 day shorts, 4 shirts,1 workout outfit, 1 belt | Existing if you can |
| One pair of walking shoes | Existing and expect to get dirty |
| Toiletry Items – Travel toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, and shampoos | Existing or buy at home. Place in gallon zip lock bag |
| Prescribed Medicines and Melatonin (for sleep) | All other medicine is available there and 1/20th the cost found in USA |
| Cell phones, electronic entertainment | Existing cell phone, Nintendo Switch, tablets |
| Travel Cell Phone Tripods | $40 : https://amzn.to/3BHkjOI I’m a fan of Manfotto for quality and resale |
| Wireless headphones | $20 : https://amzn.to/3VTPuxa Cheaper than airport costs |
| Extra Credit Cards | You’ll end up pulling cash out at the first ATM, but have extra credit cards for crazy emergencies. |
| International Travel for Cell Phone | Check your provider. Getting eSIMs may work, but unsure about Egypt. I was charged $10 day for Egypt. Could hotspot if you need others to borrow traffic. |
| Printed copy of your travel plans power point. Includes copy of your passport. |
Arriving at airport
If you’re flying out of San Diego, you can park long-term for about ten bucks a day—but honestly, why bother? Get dropped off, grab a rideshare home when you’re back. Cheaper, easier, no stress. If you’re dealing with LAX, book long-term parking a day or two ahead and ride the shuttle in. Don’t get suckered into the close-in lots unless you like throwing away a couple hundred bucks for convenience you don’t need.
Carry-on strategy: if you’re smart enough to pack light, check that bag on the way home. Outbound, doesn’t matter. Just keep your backpack stocked—book, phone, USB charger, maybe a block. If you’re flying ZipAir, remember: no seatback TVs, no endless stream of bad movies. You’re your own entertainment.
And then there’s security. It’s always a grind. Expect lines. Expect waiting. Give yourself two hours, minimum, just to get through the whole cattle drive. Me? I’m always early. Beats sweating it out at the checkpoint while your flight boards without you.
Travel to Lodging
This is where planning pays off. Before you even get on the plane, screw around with Google Maps. Figure out where you land, then tack on an hour and a half for customs, baggage claim, and the general circus of getting out of the airport. If your flight lands after 10 p.m., don’t be a hero. Book a hotel near the airport. Fighting train schedules at midnight is a losing game.
Buying train tickets online? Forget it. For first-timers, it’s a nightmare. Just step outside, soak in the sea of Japanese signage, and head straight for the ATM. Test your card. Pull out about $300 in cash. Japan runs on cash, and you’ll burn through it faster than you think. Just make sure you tell your bank you’re going to Japan before you leave, unless you enjoy begging through international call centers at baggage claim.
With cash in hand, you’ve got buses and trains. I’m a train guy. Use Apple or Google Maps—they’ll tell you when the next train’s rolling in. You’ll either fumble your way through the smart card system (good luck) or buy one of those little yellow tickets. Keep it in your wallet like gold. First train ride feels alien, intimidating. Rule number one: don’t be that tourist. Trains are quiet. No loud conversations, no acting like you own the place. And if you see an old woman standing—give her your seat. It’s basic humanity.
If you don’t know what you’re doing, find another American. Misery loves company, and you’ll figure it out together. Trust me—you’ll get the hang of it. I believe in you.
When you reach your station, the fun begins. You’ll need that yellow ticket to get out. Half the time the gate will spit it back at you like a bad joke. Look for the station guard, wave the ticket—he’ll usually let you slide through. If not, hit the fare adjustment machine, feed it some yen, and it’ll spit out a fresh ticket that works. Congratulations. You’ve survived the first boss battle.
And yes, eventually you’ll graduate to a smart card. Maybe even download the app. But Japan’s app scene isn’t slick like back home. In the end, cash is king here—and for a first-timer, that’s the safest bet.
How to daily travel
If you’ve mapped your trip right, trains are your best friend. They’ll take you just about anywhere you need to go. But here’s the reality: you’re going to walk. A lot. Ten, fifteen, hell—twenty-five thousand steps a day if you’re really chasing it. Your feet will hate you. Suck it up.
I live by what I call The Event Rule. Don’t overdo it. Burnout kills a trip faster than bad weather. With kids, one or two events a day is plenty. For adults, think in terms of two neighborhoods or two big stops. Maybe a museum in the morning, a major attraction in the afternoon. Fill in the gaps with food, drinks, random detours—that’s where the real magic is.
For short hops, rideshare is a lifesaver. I use “Go.” Download the app, toss in a card, and you’re set. No tip games, no nonsense. They pick you up, drop you off, and you’re only out twenty-five bucks or so if it’s a quick 10–15 minute ride. Anything longer and the price starts to bite. Perfect for when you’re tired, lost, and muttering fuck this under your breath.
Taxis still have their place. Reliable, clean, and usually cash-first. Always have yen in your pocket—it makes the whole exchange smoother. Swipe if you must, but cash keeps it simple, keeps it fast. In Japan, that’s always a win.
How to eat and drink
For the tourist, Japan is exactly what you think it is. Everything you’ve seen on TV? It’s here, waiting. Sushi that’ll ruin you for life, ramen that’ll make you sweat and smile, yakitori smoke rising from street stalls at midnight. If you’re in it for the full experience, you can eat sushi and noodles until you physically can’t anymore. Yelp and Google? Use them. They don’t steer you wrong often. Just remember—smaller joints are usually cash only. Another reason I tell you to keep yen in your pocket.
Of course, if you’ve got picky eaters in tow, like my stepdaughter on her first trip, don’t worry—there’s always a glowing KFC or McDonald’s around the corner. No shame. They’re oddly better here than back home. My own guilty pleasure? Denny’s. Yeah, Denny’s. Ten bucks or less gets you a full American-style breakfast—salmon, rice, miso, eggs, coffee. I’ve written about it before, and I’ll write about it again.
But the real goldmine? Convenience stores. 7-Eleven, Lawson, Family Mart. Forget everything you know about them in the States. This is another universe. Egg salad sandwiches so soft they practically dissolve, hot coffee in a can, fried chicken that rivals restaurants. Everyone finds their thing.
And here’s a little cultural fine print: Japan is open container—but it’s not Vegas. Don’t eat or drink while walking. Park yourself, finish what you’ve got, then move on. Or take it back to your hotel or Airbnb. Simple rule: live it up, but don’t be a jackass.
Must haves to visit
Spend a little time digging through the digital back alleys. The internet’s a mess—half noise, half treasure—but if you’re patient, you’ll stumble across the things that grab you, the things that stick in your teeth. If you want a detour into my world, take a look at my Japan trips here: ottobohn.com/my-international-trips
Tokyo
I call it the Circuit. Go around the circle and you’ll find something.
Must haves:
-Shibuya Crossing
-Shijuku Walkthrough and maybe, a show.
-Akihabara Stores
-Asakusa Temple
-A baseball game (Tokyo Giants or Yokohama Baystars)
Kyoto
Must Haves
-Fushimi Gates & Temple
-Old Kyoto District
-Golden Temple
Osaka
Must Have
-Osaka Castle
-Doutombori (Notably Running Man Photo and Local Foods)
Okinawa
Must Haves
-Okinawa Aquarium
-Any beaches
-Hacksaw Ridge
How to leave to airport
When it’s time to head home, don’t screw around. Get to the airport early. Two hours before your flight is the bare minimum, and honestly, you’re better off padding it. Trains don’t care about your itinerary. Miss the express and end up on the slow one, and suddenly you’re sweating bullets while your plane boards without you.
My rule? Four hours. If the wheels go up at 2 p.m., I’m out the door at 10 a.m. Packed, fed, and ready for whatever chaos comes next. In Tokyo, that window saves you from stress. In Osaka, same deal—except don’t tempt fate by staying in Kyoto the night before. Stay in Osaka. The margin of error isn’t worth it.
Four hours gives you space. Time to get to the airport, grab a bite, wander duty-free, maybe sit with your thoughts—and yeah, maybe cry a little. Leaving Japan always feels like that. Then you board, buckle up, and let the trip fade into memory.